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      England vs Finland preview: Free betting tips, odds and predictions for Tuesday’s Nations League contest

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      ENGLAND are looking to make it two wins from two to start the Nations League when Finland meet Wembley on Tuesday.SunSport betting experts have previewed the contest and selected the best bets, tips and exclusive sign-up bonuses from our leading betting partners.Best new sign-up offersSunSport exclusivesEngland vs Finland previewOne game, one win, no goals conceded.The perfect start for Lee Carsley you’d have to say after England’s win in Ireland on Saturday.A scriptwriter wouldn’t even mark down Declan Rice and Jack Grealish as the goal scorers on the night, playing against the nation they previously represented.Grealish himself was handed a free, number ten role and looked a constant menace when on the ball.Carsley was also able to introduce some new faces into the fold in a good opening night of the Nations League.Attention turns to Finland, who they haven’t faced in over 20 years, with the last meeting coming in a World Cup qualifier in 2001.The Finns were thumped 3-0 by Greece in their opening contest over the weekend.When is England vs Finland?England vs Finland will take place on Tuesday, September 10It is scheduled to kick off at 19:45pm BSTThe encounter will take place at Wembley What TV channel is England vs Finland on?England vs Finland will be broadcast LIVE on ITV1The Nations League encounter can also be live-streamed for free via the ITVX appAlternatively, SunSport will have minute-by-minute coverage of the whole matchEngland vs Finland oddsOdds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.How to claim..William Hill £60 welcome bonusVisit the William Hill website HERE*Register an account using the Promo Code: T60Once your account is registered, click ‘opt in’ on the ‘Vegas Promotion’ pageDeposit a minimum of £10 in your main account to receive a £20 Vegas Bonus for use on Selected GamesThen place a bet with a minimum stake of £10 at odds of 1/2 or greater on any football marketOnce that’s settled, your account will be credited with £40 in free betsWilliam Hill: Claim £60 welcome bonus – click here*England vs Finland betting tips and predictionsGoals aplentyTwo goals scored and none conceded represents a solid start.But the England supporters always want more – as Southgate himself will attest to.So more goals is a necessity if he wants the backing of the Three Lions support and a home game against Finland – thumped by Greece last time out – can provide the perfect opportunity.England to win and five or more goals in the game at 5/2 with William Hill – CLAIM HEREEze peasyEberechi Eze was given the final 15 minutes in Dublin but can expect more game time here.Crystal Palace star scored in last two games for his club and can add to this season’s tally here.Eberechi Eze to score at 17/10 with William Hill – CLAIM HERE*William Hill. 18+. Play Safe. New players only, using promo code T60. Valid from 13/04/2022. Online play. Get £60 Bonus split between Vegas & Sports in the following manner – (i) Deposit £10 to unlock £20 Vegas Free Bet on Selected Games (72hr expiry, wagering reqs apply); then (ii) bet £10+ (odds 1/2+) with cash (excl. £10 deposit) or Vegas winnings (after wager reqs met). Once settled, receive £40 Sports Free Bets excluding Virtual Markets (4x £10, 7 days expiry). Payment methods & country restrictions apply. Full T&Cs apply.*Betfred. New customers only. Register with BETFRED50. Deposit £10+ via Debit Card and place first bet £10+ at Evens (2.0)+ on Sports within 7 days to get 3 x £10 in Sports Free Bets & 2 x £10 in Acca Free Bets within 10 hours of settlement. 7-day expiry. Eligibility & payment exclusions apply. T&Cs apply.*BetMGM. New cust only. 7 days to opt in by placing a £10 qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater to receive 6x Free Bets: 1 x £10 horse racing, 2 x £10 Bet Builder, 2 x £10 Acca and 1 x £10 football. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+. T&Cs apply.*talkSPORT BET. 18+ New customers only. Opt in & bet £10+ via mobile on any football market at 2.00+ odds within 7 days. No Cash out. Get 6x £5 Free Bets on selected markets. Free bets expire in 7 days. Card payments & Apple Pay only. T&Cs apply, see below. GambleAware.org | Please gamble responsibly*Tote. New customers online only. Eligibility restrictions apply. Only valid with code B10G40 on registration. £10 min qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater across sports or racing (if EW then min £10 Win + £10 Place). Receive £20 Tote Credit, £10 Free Sports Bet and 50 Free Spins on Big Bass Bonanza within 48 hours of qualifying bet settlement. 7-day expiry on free bets & Tote Credit. Your first bet will be your qualifying bet. One per customer. UK & ROI customers only. 18+. Full T&Cs apply. Gambleaware.org. Full T&Cs apply.Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry, or depressedGamcare – www.gamcare.org.ukGamble Aware – www.gambleaware.orgFind our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk More

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      I snubbed Man Utd because I didn’t like the atmosphere and once fled a BEAR – now I’m out to beat England for Finland

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      DOWNING a fan’s beer, running for his life from a bear and singing Sweet Caroline on live TV – Finland captain Lukas Hradecky ticks all the boxes for a typically madcap goalkeeper. But the player England must try to score past tomorrow at Wembley is also a history maker.Lukas Hradecky will be in Finland’s goal for their Nations League clash with EnglandThe 34-year-old is the goalkeeper at Bayer LeverkusenHradecky led Finland to their first and only major tournament at Euro 2020. And earlier this year he became the first Finnish footballer to win a title in any of the big five European leagues when he skippered Bayer Leverkusen’s Invincibles to glory.No wonder Slovak-born Hradecky, 34, is one of Finland’s most beloved athletes.He moved to the country from Bratislava before he was two because dad Vladimir had a contract to play semi-pro volleyball in the city of Turku.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHradecky came through the academy of eight-time Finnish champions Turun Palloseura but never played a league game before moving to second-tier Danish side Esbjerg.He earned a week’s trial at Manchester United and was offered the chance to stay on and fight for a permanent deal.But he explained: “I didn’t like the way British clubs worked with their academy teams. And I didn’t really like that atmosphere there.“I don’t mean it in any bad way, but I just didn’t see myself playing at United. So I ended up rejecting the offer.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAfter an impressive spell at Danish giants Brondby, Hradecky joined Eintracht Frankfurt in 2015. He was named Bundesliga goalkeeper of the year in 2017/8 and was the hero of Eintracht’s German cup triumph, saving four penalties across three shootouts on the way to a 3-1 win over Bayern Munich in the final.West Ham vs Bayer Leverkusen descends into chaos with huge brawls on pitch and touchline with COACH sent off Leverkusen snapped Hradecky up on a free transfer and a few weeks later he enjoyed a cheeky drink while on international duty.As he thanked fans after a friendly win over Belarus, he noticed a supporter had a pint, grabbed it – and downed it.But Hradecky tracked down the man he had left thirsty and gave him a full crate of beer, commenting on social media: “The debt is paid.”Finland certainly owe him and his team-mates a lot. For the best part of a 100 years, the country had tried and failed to reach the finals of a major tournament.But a 3-0 win over Liechtenstein in Helsinki in November 2019 broke the curse – and captain Hradecky made good on his vow to sing Sweet Caroline, his go-to karaoke song, in celebration.Ahead of Finland’s opening Euro 2020 game, Hradecky said it would be the most emotional match of his career, especially because he knew the Parken Stadium in Copenhagen so well after making his name in Denmark.But in the first half those emotions changed when Denmark’s Christian Eriksen collapsed after suffering a cardiac arrest.Hradecky managed to keep his composure and saved a penalty after the game resumed as Finland won 1-0.Hradecky knows how to interact with fansGreece beat Finland 3-0 on SaturdayHe represented Finland at Euro 2020Hradecky waved as he wore a T-shirt referring to Denmark’s Christian EriksenBut his greatest achievement is surely last season’s Double with Xabi Alonso’s Leverkusen.Although if Hradecky had not been quick on his feet during pre-season in the summer of 2019, he might not have been around to lead the club to glory.The keeper was back in Slovakia visiting relatives and went for a jog wearing a heart monitor provided by Leverkusen – only to run into a bear.He told leading German tabloid Bild: “I saw a movement in the distance. I didn’t stay there to see if it was a bear or a big dog.”I wouldn’t try to play dead if a bear was chasing me. I trusted my feet and, thank God, everything ended happily – it was actually a bear.“Our physical department can confirm that I had the highest pulse in all runs this summer.”After escaping a grisly fate, Bundesliga strikers hold a little fear for Hradecky.He kept 15 clean sheets in 33 appearances in Leverkusen’s unbeaten league campaign, but just as important was his leadership on and off the field that made him so popular in the dressing room and in the stands.After a 3-0 home win in February over Bayern, who had won 11 titles in a row, Hradecky climbed into the north end of the BayArena to conduct the ultras in celebration chants.And after lifting the Bundesliga trophy a few months later, Hradecky repeated the stunt and let the fans touch the precious metal.Leverkusen also won the German Cup and completed a 2024 Treble by claiming the Super Cup last month.Phillip Arens, who covers Leverkusen for Bild, describes Hradecky as “normal but special”, a thoroughly down-to-earth bloke with a sparkling personality as well as a great sporting talent.Arens added: “Lukas always says what he thinks, he’s open-minded, he can be funny and he can be serious.READ MORE SUN STORIES“He is a true original, one of a dying breed like Thomas Muller.”Goalkeepers are renowned for being characters. But Hradecky is a class apart.Lukas Hradecky with the Super Cup trophy last monthHe skippered a star-studded Leverkusen team to their first Bundesliga title More

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      Gareth Southgate ‘was left miffed’ by England star Anthony Gordon at Euro 2024 over two incidents

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      GARETH SOUTHGATE was reportedly “left miffed” by Anthony Gordon twice at Euro 2024.The England star played just five minutes in Germany but started in Lee Carsley’s first match in charge against Ireland on Saturday.Anthony Gordon left Gareth Southgate miffed twice at the EurosCredit: GettySouthgate was left bemused after Anthony Gordon fell off his bike in GermanyCredit: GettyGordon caused problems with his run in behind leading to Declan Rice’s opener in Dublin.The Newcastle winger is not short of confidence and he praised the “freedom” he and his team-mates were given by the new Three Lions boss.Gordon may be grateful for Carsley’s interim appointment as he won the Under-21s Euros under him last year, while this summer he was overlooked by Southgate.He impressed in a substitute appearance against Slovenia in the final Euros group game but that ended up being his only participation in the tournament.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThat might have been because Gordon fell from his bike a day later as the squad enjoyed a team ride.He was left with facial injuries and Southgate was said to be left “miffed” by the incident, as Gordon was using his mobile phone.Gordon also ruffled feathers with comments he made about the media which appeared to imply that England’s style of play was predictable.He said: “I know I am a nightmare for anyone that I play against.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”‘I’m positive. Every time I get the ball, I always try to make something happen.”I’m not a very safe player. I am always trying to put people on the back foot. I think I add a different element to the team. It (my style) brings a sense of unpredictability.”England player ratings against IrelandGordon, 23, doubled down on those comments ahead of the Ireland clash.Asked what England missed at the Euros, he said: “I think that expression, that freedom to express yourself.”You could say we controlled all our games, but I don’t think we were very dynamic. We weren’t killing teams, we weren’t relentless in trying to score goals. We lacked a bit of excitement.” More

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      France vs Belgium free betting tips: Back our 15/1 Bet Builder and claim £50 in free bets with Betfred

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      FRANCE and Belgium meet in a competitive fixture once again, just a couple of months after their Euro 2024 quarter final in Dusseldorf.Our team of betting experts have selected a Bet Builder for the Nations League encounter, which Betfred have priced up at a generous 15/1.Not just that! New Betfred customers who register an account with Betfred and stake a tenner on football will receive £50 in sports free bets!Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereHow to claim..Betfred welcome offerVisit the Betfred website HERE*Register an account using the Promo Code: BETFRED50Deposit £10 using a Debit CardPlace your first bet of £10 or more on any qualifying Sportsbook markets, at odds of Evens or greaterOnce that bet has settled, Betfred will credit your account with £50 in Free BetsBetfred: Get your £50 in free bets – Claim here*France vs BelgiumOur Bet Builder selections: France to win, Antoine Griezmann to score and Timothy Castagne to be booked.Back our 15/1 Bet BuilderHere’s why we’ve made those selections:France to win: Started this campaign poorly with thumping 3-1 defeat to Italy. Have beaten Belgium the last three times they’ve met, including in that Euros knockout clash just a couple of months ago. Must bounce back.Antoine Griezmann to score: The 33-year-old has always been a key player for France but has only scored once just end of March for club and country. Will come good and should be in from the start here to lead that bounce back.Timothy Castagne to be booked: Will fill full back role which included a tough assignment up against Griezmann, Bradley Barcola or Ousmane Dembele. Tough night for defender who hasn’t had many minutes in Fulham team.Back our 15/1 Bet BuilderRemember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry, or depressedGamcare – www.gamcare.org.ukGamble Aware – www.gambleaware.orgFind our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk*New customers only. Register with BETFRED50. Deposit £10+ via Debit Card and place first bet £10+ at Evens (2.0)+ on Sports within 7 days to get 3 x £10 in Sports Free Bets & 2 x £10 in Acca Free Bets within 10 hours of settlement. 7-day expiry. Eligibility & payment exclusions apply. T&Cs apply. More

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      BBC MOTD pundit slammed by international manager for ‘talking s*** all the time’

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      NEW Wales manager Craig Bellamy once berated pundit Micah Richards for “talking s*** all the time”.The Match of the Day analyst was speaking about the Nations League with pals Alan Shearer and Gary Lineker on the Stick to Football podcast.Pundit Micah Richards recalled the time he was “mugged off” by Craig BellamyThe former Man City defender’s story left Gary Lineker in stitchesWales boss Bellamy told Micah Richards to up his punditry gameAfter dissecting England’s 2-0 win over Ireland, attentions turned to Wales, who kicked off their international break with a goalless draw against Turkey. Bellamy left Burnley after two years as an assistant to take charge of the Welsh national team, following the departure of Rob Page after the nation failed to qualify for Euro 2024.It prompted Richards to recall a “quick story” about visiting Bellamy – or “Bells” – before Burnley’s 3-0 defeat to Manchester City last season.Richards said: “Bellers is Marmite. You either love him or you hate him. He worked his socks off when he was at Man City.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”But he would tell you how it is. If you played rubbish he would tell you. “So I’ve gone to see Vincent Kompany last season before Burnley’s first game of the season last year, I went to a training session and I went to the game.”And I’m walking into Turf Moor and I see Bellamy come up and he goes ‘F*** me, you’re f***ing everywhere talking s*** all the time’.””And I said ‘Bellers what do you mean?’.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”You boys on analysis don’t know what you’re talking about. You’ve got basic analysis. It’s ABC, 123 stuff. If you want proper analysis come to a Burnley training and I will show you how it is done.”I was thinking to myself whether or not he was being serious or if he was having banter. But he was being deadly serious. I did not know how to take it.Where are they now: The unusual careers of former footballers”I didn’t say nothing, I got in my car and drove home and just thought he’s just mugged me right off there and I’ve basically just taken it.”The brutal anecdote left Lineker and Shearer in stitches as they both burst out in laughter.Richards then admitted that he’ll be pulling Bellamy up on certain bits and pieces when he sees his former Man City team-mate again.Man City signed the former Welsh winger back in January 2009 from West Ham for £14m.Bellamy also formed a successful strike partnership with Shearer at Newcastle between 2001-2005 under Bobby Robson.Meanwhile, the appointment of Bellamy as Wales manager was to push for a rebrand before the 2026 World Cup and Euro 2028, when Cardiff will stage matches. Bellamy, who won 78 Welsh caps, scoring 19 goals, never qualified for a major finals and hopes for his first win as boss against Montenegro tonight. More

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      England star reveals NO team-mate would make a ‘great manager’ and says ‘we’re all assistants’

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      KYLE WALKER has claimed NOT ONE of his England team-mates at Manchester City would make for “great manager” material.Instead, he insists they would all be assistants, but did also name four other team-mates who would fit into that bracket.Kyle Walker was asked which England team-mates at Man City would make a ‘great manager’Credit: https://www.instagram.com/kylewalker2/Walker answered by saying none of themCredit: https://www.instagram.com/kylewalker2/Instead he insisted they would all be assistants insteadCredit: https://www.instagram.com/kylewalker2/But Walker named four stars at City who would be good managersCredit: https://www.instagram.com/kylewalker2/He then called John Stones to ask him for his viewCredit: https://www.instagram.com/kylewalker2/Speaking on BBC 5 Live Sport, Walker was asked what team-mates, if any, at Man City he would fancy to be a good manager in the future.Walker, 34, said: “I’d probably say Kevin [De Bruyne], Bernardo [Silva], Rodri and Ruben [Dias].”When asked about club-mates he has starred with at international level, Walker swiftly responded: “Nah, no chance…”Nah, assistants. We’re all assistants aren’t we.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWalker was then asked whether John Stones, who has played alongside him for both club and country, would agree. This prompted the defender to call the 30-year-old.Once Stones had picked up, Walker asked him for his thoughts.The former Everton defender singled out Dias as his pick for a good manager in the future.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe also revealed two members of the England Euro 2024 squad who also fit into that category, and in doing so also revealed the two stars’ nicknames in the camp.Brainstorming their opinions together, Walker said: “Uncle Marc [Guehi] I think.”How England’s last ten managers fared on debut and who started in their first XIStones chuckled at the namedrop but agreed, before adding: “Uncle Marc or the Hurricane probably.”The BBC presenter was confused by the name and asked who it referred to, with Walker answering it was Harry Kane.Walker failed to make the cut for Lee Carsley’s first England squad for Uefa Nations League clashes against Ireland and Finland.It is the first time the 90-cap defender has been out of the squad since March 2022.The Three Lions beat Ireland 2-0 – with 80-cap Stones playing five minutes off the bench – and face Finland tomorrow evening.England Player Ratings vs IrelandDECLAN RICE silenced his Irish critics with a dominant display in England’s Nations League opener.Lee Carsley’s players handed him a debut win as interim manager of the Three Lions.Rice starred in the first half as he netted the opener and then set up England’s second goal.Jack Grealish doubled up for England after being set up by Rice 15 minutes later.Anthony Gordon however faded in the match as he was not able to have as much success as Grealish.SunSport’s Charlie Wyett has rated England’s players’ performance against Ireland…JORDAN PICKFORD – 6Pushed away a half decent shot from Sammie Szmodics at the start of the game but as England took control, he had a stress-free game.After a difficult couple of weeks with Everton, he would have been grateful for this. TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD – 7Looked more at home at right-back compared to the disastrous midfield experiment at the Euros.Stunning pass in a move that eventually led to the first goal. He has to remain as England’s right-back. MARC GUEHI – 7Enjoyed a decent Euros and switched over to the right of central defence as John Stones was named on the bench.Looks increasingly like a top-drawer defender. HARRY MAGUIRE – 7Was left devastated after failing to make the Euro 2024 squad but he has enjoyed a decent start with Manchester United and looked solid here.When he is not in the team, England do miss his aerial presence. 7LEVI COLWILL – 7Second appearance for England and was deployed at left-back.Unlike the Euros, England have much better balance in defence with a natural left footer in this position. 7DECLAN RICE – 9Enjoyed an absolute stormer in what could have been a difficult afternoon.Booed every time he touched the ball, the former Irish international quietened the boisterous home fans with a brilliant finish although refused to celebrate.He then set up the second for Grealish. KOBBIE MAINOO – 7Fits perfectly into Carsley’s style of play. Some of his passing was excellent, particularly in the final third of the pitch, and this included his part in the outstanding second goal. BUKAYO SAKA – 7Enjoying a terrific start to the season with Arsenal – he has been nominated as their player of the month – and played with plenty of confidence here.Was involved in the second goal.JACK GREALISH – 8Left out of the Euros squad, but loved every minute of this.A decent finish for 2-0 and unlike Rice, celebrated in front of the visiting fans by raising both arms in triumph.ANTHONY GORDON – 6Looked really lively early on but faded.He should have put England ahead when clean through but was lucky that seconds later, Rice hammered his shot into the corner. 6HARRY KANE – 6Missed with a header and despite working hard, did not actually have that many chances despite England having so much possession. SubsGibbs-White (for Grealish 77 mins) 6, Gomes (for Mainoo 77) 6, Eze (for Gordon 77 mins) 6, Bowen (for Kane 84 mins) 6, Stones (for Maguire 85) 6.Subs not used: Henderson, Pope, Lewis, Gallagher, Livramento, Konsa, Madueke. More

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      Harry Kane is England’s only option for World Cup 2026 with no real alternative as struggling captain set for 100th cap

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      HE is England’s all-time record goalscorer and Tottenham’s most prolific marksman, too.He is a Golden Boot winner in the World Cup, Premier League and Bundesliga — and tomorrow night brings another personal accolade for Harry Kane, as he joins England’s 100 club.Harry Kane was arguably England’s least-effective performer in IrelandCredit: GettyIvan Toney may struggle to force his way back into contention for England while Ollie Watkins, currently injured, is a different type of player to KaneCredit: GettyWhether Kane is knackered, struggling for full fitness or simply feeling the effects of footballing old age, there still is every chance he will break Peter Shilton’s long-standing record of 125 appearances to become his nation’s most-capped footballer.At 31, the captain is here to stay — due to lack of any obvious rival to be England’s first-choice No 9, as well as his own uncanny ability to defy ­public opinion.Interim boss Lee Carsley insists Kane continues to be essential to England as he prepares to become only the tenth player to win a century of caps for the Three Lions in the Nations League clash with Finland at Wembley. Kane is the only specialist centre-forward in the current England squad and there is no genuine long-term rival for his shirt.READ MORE TOP STORIESDespite a disappointing Euros — in which he never looked fully match sharp — the greatest footballer never to win a trophy is on course to surpass goalkeeper Shilton at some point in 2026.If you’re supremely optimistic, then there’s a chance he could even do it in a World Cup Final in New Jersey the summer after next.Kane netted after just 79 seconds of his England debut having just replaced Wayne Rooney during a 4-0 victory over Lithuania.When Kane scored that header at Wembley, with only his third touch as a full international, Gary Lineker tweeted: “Fifty more touches and Harry Kane will beat Sir Bobby Charlton’s goalscoring record.”Most read in FootballInterim chief Lee Carsley says Kane remains integral on and off the pitchCredit: GettyFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSIn fact, Rooney would   break Charlton’s 49-goal mark before Kane swiftly replaced the Scouser as England’s leading scorer with his 54th strike for his country in a 2-1 victory over Italy in Naples last year.Nine-and-a-half years after his debut, Kane stands on 66 goals from 99 matches. Roy Keane slams ‘arrogant’ England as ‘awful’ despite interim boss Lee Carsley winning on debut against IrelandAnd yet there was little in Saturday’s 2-0 victory over Ireland in Dublin to suggest that Kane is over the summer malaise which saw him operating well below his best in Germany and being hauled off after an hour of the final defeat by Spain.The striker failed to convert a free header from an early Trent Alexander-Arnold cross.And while he looked slightly more mobile than in the Euros, he remained way short of his sharpest — arguably the least convincing player in an impressive team performance.The Bayern Munich star is adamant no physical issues were holding him back during the tournament, despite a back problem at the tail of the Bundesliga season.Few people believe him.But Carsley insists Kane will continue to be a crucial member of the England side way beyond his own six-match autumn audition to become Gareth Southgate’s full-time successor.Carsley said: “On and off the pitch he’s a really good example.“Every single day, he is highly motivated to do well and you can see that from how he conducts himself.“He will be invaluable in my short space of time but also moving ­forward.” And where would Carsley — or whoever else might manage England in next year’s World Cup qualifiers — look to replace Kane?Had Ivan Toney made a summer transfer to a leading Premier League club, he may have become a genuine alternative.But his move from Brentford to Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League removes any serious chance of that.There is no young gunslinger looking to bring down Kane and so there look certain to be many more caps after he wins his 100th.Ollie Watkins — currently injured — provided England’s moment of the summer with a stunning 90th-minute winner in the Euros semi-final against Holland.But the Aston Villa striker turns 29 this year and is a very different sort of player to Kane. It is difficult to imagine him usurping the skipper.While Carsley is introducing the next ­generation of England talent, based around the Under-21 team he led to the European Championship crown last year, there is no authentic centre-forward among that crop. In the final victory over Spain, Carsley employed Cole Palmer and Anthony Gordon as a pair of ‘false nines’.There is no young gunslinger looking to bring down Kane and so there look certain to be many more caps to come after he wins his 100th against the Finns at Wembley.That 100 club — with the addition of Manchester City right-back Kyle Walker, who is joint 11th on the all-time appearance list with 90 caps — works into a perfect fantasy XI in a 4-4-2 formation.Shilton would be in goal with Walker, Bobby Moore, Billy Wright and Ashley Cole making up the back four.David Beckham, Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard and Charlton would be in front of them, with Rooney and Kane making up the front two.Kane will surely break his trophy duck this season, his second at BayernCredit: GettyThat would be quite some team — even if we would still have to solve the conundrum of Gerrard and Lampard playing together.  But among such company, Kane’s lack of silverware becomes even more glaring.Moore and Charlton were World Cup winners, eight of those players have won the European Cup, eight have been champions of England and most have shed-loads of winner’s medals.Kane will surely break his duck with ­Bayern this season.Although we said that last term, when he arrived at a club which had won 11 consecutive Bundesliga crowns, yet drew a spectacular blank.A runner-up in the European Championships (twice), the Champions League, the Premier League and the League Cup (twice), Kane has walked past more major trophies than he would care to remember without ever actually lifting one.READ MORE SUN STORIESHis personal achievements, and the absence of a major team honour, make his an extremely unusual career.But a career which is set to run and run. Even if Kane is never able to run and run quite like he used to.England Player Ratings vs IrelandDECLAN RICE silenced his Irish critics with a dominant display in England’s Nations League opener.Lee Carsley’s players handed him a debut win as interim manager of the Three Lions.Rice starred in the first half as he netted the opener and then set up England’s second goal.Jack Grealish doubled up for England after being set up by Rice 15 minutes later.Anthony Gordon however faded in the match as he was not able to have as much success as Grealish.SunSport’s Charlie Wyett has rated England’s players’ performance against Ireland…JORDAN PICKFORD – 6Pushed away a half decent shot from Sammie Szmodics at the start of the game but as England took control, he had a stress-free game.After a difficult couple of weeks with Everton, he would have been grateful for this. TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD – 7Looked more at home at right-back compared to the disastrous midfield experiment at the Euros.Stunning pass in a move that eventually led to the first goal. He has to remain as England’s right-back. MARC GUEHI – 7Enjoyed a decent Euros and switched over to the right of central defence as John Stones was named on the bench.Looks increasingly like a top-drawer defender. HARRY MAGUIRE – 7Was left devastated after failing to make the Euro 2024 squad but he has enjoyed a decent start with Manchester United and looked solid here.When he is not in the team, England do miss his aerial presence. 7LEVI COLWILL – 7Second appearance for England and was deployed at left-back.Unlike the Euros, England have much better balance in defence with a natural left footer in this position. 7DECLAN RICE – 9Enjoyed an absolute stormer in what could have been a difficult afternoon.Booed every time he touched the ball, the former Irish international quietened the boisterous home fans with a brilliant finish although refused to celebrate.He then set up the second for Grealish. KOBBIE MAINOO – 7Fits perfectly into Carsley’s style of play. Some of his passing was excellent, particularly in the final third of the pitch, and this included his part in the outstanding second goal. BUKAYO SAKA – 7Enjoying a terrific start to the season with Arsenal – he has been nominated as their player of the month – and played with plenty of confidence here.Was involved in the second goal.JACK GREALISH – 8Left out of the Euros squad, but loved every minute of this.A decent finish for 2-0 and unlike Rice, celebrated in front of the visiting fans by raising both arms in triumph.ANTHONY GORDON – 6Looked really lively early on but faded.He should have put England ahead when clean through but was lucky that seconds later, Rice hammered his shot into the corner. 6HARRY KANE – 6Missed with a header and despite working hard, did not actually have that many chances despite England having so much possession. SubsGibbs-White (for Grealish 77 mins) 6, Gomes (for Mainoo 77) 6, Eze (for Gordon 77 mins) 6, Bowen (for Kane 84 mins) 6, Stones (for Maguire 85) 6.Subs not used: Henderson, Pope, Lewis, Gallagher, Livramento, Konsa, Madueke. More

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      How England’s last ten managers fared on debut and who started in their first XI as Carsley impresses on Three Lions bow

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      LEE CARSLEY got off to a perfect start in his reign as England’s interim coach.The coach became the 20th man to take charge of the Three Lions in the Nations League clash against Ireland.Lee Carsley had his first game in charge of England against IrelandCredit: GettyJack Grealish netted the second goal for the Three Lions in a 2-0 winCredit: ReutersSince 1999, ten different coaches have led the national side out for games.They have all had varying degrees of success and longevity in the role.Some reigns have lasted over 50 and even 100 games, while some have lasted just one.SunSport takes a look at the first games of England’s last ten managers…READ MORE IN FOOTBALLKevin Keegan – 1999-2000 – 18 gamesKevin Keegan took on the England job as the full-time replacement for Glenn Hoddle.His first game in charge saw the Three Lions run out 3-1 winners over Poland in the Euro 2000 qualifying group.Kevin Keegan’s first match came against PolandCredit: Getty Images – GettyThe goals came via a hat-trick from Manchester United’s Paul Scholes.The midfielder’s feat was England’s first hat-trick from a player since Ian Wright scored four against San Marino in 1993.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSKeegan’s teams included legendary players such as Alan Shearer as captain, David Beckham, Sol Campbell, Gary Neville and David Seaman.He also handed debuts to Tim Sherwood and Ray Parlour.England manager Lee Carsley reveals why he won’t sing the national anthem ahead of 1st game as bossThe match ended in a 3-1 win for the Three LionsCredit: GettyEngland were only able to qualify for Euro 2000 via a playoff win over Scotland.At the tournament, the Three Lions were unable to advance to the quarter-finals as they lost two of three group games.Keegan resigned from the role in October 2000 after losing to Germany in their first 2002 World Cup qualifier.That match was also the final game to be played at the old Wembley before it was rebuilt.Paul Scholes scored a hat-trick in the matchCredit: GettyPeter Taylor – 2000-2001 – 1 gamePeter Taylor was appointed as a caretaker manager in November 2000 following Keegan’s exit from the role.He lasted only one game, which was a 1-0 defeat against Italy in Turin after a goal from AC Milan legend Gennaro Gattuso.Peter Taylor took charge of one game against ItalyCredit: RexTaylor made his team up with a focus on youth, having previously been the head coach of the Under 21s.He handed Beckham the armband for the first time in his career.Taylor also included young stars such as Emile Heskey, Kieron Dyer, Rio Ferdinand, Jamie Carragher, Gareth Barry and Seth Johnson in his squad.Johnson earned his one and only cap for the Three Lions as he came on as a 73rd-minute substitute.Gennaro Gattuso’s brilliant strike won the game for ItalyCredit: Times Newspapers LtdSven-Goran Eriksson – 2001-2006 – 67 gamesSven-Goran Eriksson took charge of his first England game as manager in 2001.The late Swede got off to an exciting start with a 3-0 win over a Spain side that included the likes of Iker Casillas, Pep Guardiola, Raul and Luis Enrique.Sven-Goran Erikkson took charge of his first England game in 2001Credit: GettyThe goals came from Nick Barmby, Emile Heskey and a first for UgoEhiogu.Substitute goalkeeper Nigel Martyn also kept a clean sheet by denying Javi Moreno from the spot.Eriksson was the first of a kind as he was the first foreigner to be handed the job by the FA.He also led England to an incredible 5-1 victory in World Cup qualification over Germany in Munich in September 2001.His side beat Spain 3-0 in an international friendlyCredit: ReutersHis team qualified for the tournament in Japan and South Korea after David Beckham’s iconic free-kick against Greece.Eriksson took charge of England for three major tournaments, each time ending at the quarter-final stage.Euro 2004 and the World Cup in 2006 both ended with a penalty shootout heartbreak to Portugal.Steve McClaren – 2006-2007 – 18 gamesSteve McClaren was appointed as England manager in 2006 after Eriksson stepped down.He beat the likes of Alan Curbishley, Martin O’Neill and Sam Allardyce to the role.Steve McClaren replaced Sven-Goran ErikssonCredit: PA:Press AssociationThe job was initially offered to Brazilian Luiz Felippe Scolari, but he rejected the FA’s offer.McClaren’s was given the nickname “Second Choice Steve” due to the circumstances of his appointment.The coach’s tenure got off to a great start though, as his side beat Greece 4-0 at Old Trafford.He opted to go in a different direction from his predecessor and dropped veteran players such as Sol Campbell, David James and Beckham.He was nicknamed ‘Wally with the Brolly’ in the infamous game that saw England fail to qualify for Euro 2008Credit: Times Newspapers LtdEngland beat Greece 4-0 in his first gameCredit: ReutersJohn Terry opened the scoring before a strike from Frank Lampard, and a brace from Peter Crouch sealed the victory.However, despite a good start, McClaren’s team faltered in their qualification for Euro 2008.They failed to reach the tournament after losing their final group game to Croatia at Wembley in 2007.In that game, he earned another nickname, “Wally with a brolly”, after he was spotted with an umbrella and a cup of tea on the sideline. The next day, he was sacked by the FA in what is the second shortest stint of any England manager.Peter Crouch got on the scoresheetCredit: ReutersFabio Capello – 2008-2012 – 42 gamesFabio Capello was named as McClaren’s replacement and England’s second foreign manager in 2008.The former Real Madrid man with it believed that he was handed a contract worth £6million-per-year.Fabio Capello was England’s second-ever foreign managerCredit: AFPThe Italian’s first match saw England scrape a victory over Switzerland in an international friendly match at Wembley.Jermaine Jenas scored the opener before Eren Derdiyok equalised for the visitors.Shaun Wright-Phillips netted the winner for the Three Lions midway through the second half.Capello led England through qualification for the 2010 World Cup in Germany.England won his first match in charge against SwitzerlandCredit: GettyHowever, the team scraped through the group stages before being knocked out by the host nation 4-1 in a game that saw Frank Lampard denied a clear goal, but technology could not confirm it.The manager then saw England have an unbeaten campaign to qualify for Euro 2012, with five wins and three draws.However, he resigned from the role after Terry was removed as captain by the FA due to his affair with Wayne Bridge’s girlfriend, Vanessa Perroncel.Shaun Wright-Phillips and Jermaine Jenas scored the goalsCredit: PA:Press AssociationStuart Pearce – 2012 – 1 gameStuart Pearce was in charge of the England Under 21s when Capello resigned from his role.The former Nottingham Forest and West Ham star took on the senior team while the FA searched for a replacement for the Italian.Stuart Pearce had one game in charge of EnglandCredit: GettyAs caretaker, his sole match in charge of England was a friendly match against Holland at Wembley in February 2012.The game itself was one to remember as Arjen Robben and Klass-Jan Hunterlaar scored within a minute of each other to put the visitors in control.But Pearce’s team fought back to level thanks to late goals from Gary Cahill and Ashley Young.However, Robben netted in the 92nd minute to give the Dutch victory.Ashely Young scored an equaliser for EnglandCredit: Getty Images – GettyArjen Robben netted a late winner in the matchCredit: ReutersPearce did name Scott Parker as captain for the match, which also saw Fraizer Campbell earn his only cap for England.He wanted to lead England into Euro 2012 but did admit that he did not have the experience to take on the job full-time.The FA agreed with him and instead opted for a very experienced manager to take on the job.Roy Hodgson – 2012-2016 – 56 gamesThe England job was Roy Hodgson’s 19th managerial role in his career.He pipped Harry Redknapp to the role despite the Tottenham boss being the favourite to replace Capello.Roy Hodgson was appointed manager in 2012Credit: GettyHodgson caused controversy early in his reign when he left Rio Ferdinand out of the squad for Euro 2012 due to “footballing reasons”.His first match came in Oslo as England took on Norway in a friendly game.Ashley Young’s 9th-minute goal gave the Three Lions their first victory over Norway for 32 years.In the build-up to the European championships, it was viewed that England’s golden generation had come to an end, and hopes were low for the tournament.His first game ended in a 1-0 win over NorwayCredit: PA:Press AssociationEngland reached the quarter-finals but were beaten by Italy on penalties.Hodgson then led the team to the World Cup in 2014 in South Africa.The tournament was a disaster for the Three Lions who were beaten by Italy and Uruguay before drawing with Costa Rica.The team finished bottom of their group, but Hodgson remained in charge.England were humiliated by Iceland in Hodgson’s last-ever gameCredit: The TimesEngland returned to action by winning all ten of their qualification matches for Euro 2016 in France.The tournament saw England humiliated in the round of 16 as they were knocked out by Iceland 2-1.The result led to Hodgson’s resignation from the role.Sam Allardyce – 2016 – 1 gameSam Allardyce has the shortest reign of any England manager ever, lasting just 67 days in the role.He won his one and only match in charge of the team 1-0 away in Slovakia in 2016 thanks to a 95th minute-winner from Adam Lallana.Sam Allardyce was made England manager in 2016Credit: Getty Images – GettyThe biggest shock of the squad was the decision to call-up an uncapped Michail Antonio.The West Ham star was in good form at the time but did not play due to injury, and he now represents Jamaica.The result means that the former West Ham and Bolton boss does possess a 100 per cent win record as England manager.However, he was axed by The FA after he was caught in a sting telling businessmen to “get around” transfer rules.He was sacked after just 67 daysCredit: Getty – ContributorGareth Southgate – 2016-2024 – 102 gamesGareth Southgate started his England tenure with a professional 2-0 win over Malta in October 2016.Daniel Sturridge and Dele Alli got on the scoresheet as the Three Lions beat the resistance of a stunning performance from goalkeeper Andrew Hogg.Gareth Southgate took the job after AllardyceCredit: Getty Images – GettySouthgate was a player for England before becoming managerCredit: PA:Press AssociationIn the game, Southgate used Wayne Rooney as a midfielder and made him the captain.The Manchester United legend featured only three more times in England before finishing his international playing career.The result against Malta could have been seen as an omen for Southgate’s reign, professional but uninspiring.The former Middlesborough manager went on to lead England to two Euros finals and a World Cup semi-final before stepping down in 2024.He oversaw more than 100 matches before stepping downCredit: The FA – Getty ImagesLee Carsley – 2024-present – 1 gameInterim boss Lee Carsley took charge of his first senior England match against the Republic of Ireland in the Nations League on September 7, 2024.His side put in an impressive performance as they beat the hosts 2-0 at the Aviva Stadium.Lee Carsley is the successor to SouthgateCredit: GettyThe goals came from former Irish players Declan Rice and Jack Grealish despite the hostile reception from the home crowd.READ MORE SUN STORIESCarsley made some big calls with his team selection as he left out experienced stars such as Raheem Sterling, Ivan Toney and Kyle Walker.He opted to hand first call-ups to Morgan Gibbs-White, Noni Madueke and Angel Gomes.He has got off to a winning startCredit: Getty More